Queensland Rail spruik new driver figures

State Opposition has called for Transport Minister Mark Bailey to be scrapped after recent figures suggest a promised restoration is likely off the table.

Mr Bailey spruiked figures, saying 69 new drivers joined the pool since the rail system went into complete meltdown in October 2016, after a staffing shortage affected services and left commuters in chaos.

Queensland Rail boss Nick Easy echoed the figures, saying there are over 60 new drivers.

But the figures don’t tell how many are actually driving trains.

Mr Easy conceded today after resignations and retirements were taken into account, the net gain in qualified drivers is only 33, with only 16 manning the trains.

The remaining 17 work as tutors and inspectors.

Queensland Rail has denied trying to deceive commuters by not telling them how many extra train drivers have been employed.